In a strong display of public dissent, citizens in Sector 26, took to the streets on December 24 to protest against the rampant encroachment in the APMC area. The protest, led by Sanket Doke, President of Navi Mumbai Pratishthan, was sparked by growing concerns over unauthorized slums, commercial complexes, garages, and heavy vehicle parking lots in Sector 19F. Local residents claim that these illegal structures have turned the area into a hotspot for criminal activities such as thefts, robberies, drug abuse, and grabbing.

The protest, which began at 11 AM in front of Puneet Corner Society, saw a large crowd gathered in defiance of the lack of action from the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) and CIDCO. Sanket Doke expressed his frustration with the administration, accusing them of neglecting their duty to curb illegal activities in public spaces. Despite multiple complaints and repeated requests from citizens, no effective measures have been taken to address the encroachments, which have exacerbated safety and law and order issues in the locality.

"The administration is putting the lives of common people at risk by supporting these illegal activities," said Doke. "Since no action has been taken despite repeated demands, the time has come for the citizens to take matters into their own hands."

The protestors have given the authorities a 15-day ultimatum to take action against the unauthorized slums, commercial establishments, and garages in the area. If no steps are taken, they have warned of another public agitation, this time at the office of the Municipal Commissioner.

In an unexpected turn of events, the protest coincided with the passing of the convoy of Forest Minister Ganesh Naik. As the protesters raised slogans and voiced their concerns, Naik's convoy came to a halt, and the Minister took the opportunity to meet with the agitated citizens. After a brief discussion, Naik assured the protesters that their grievances would be addressed and promised further action to resolve the issue.